Effect of chronic exposure to cotton dust on lung function in Khartoum, Sudan

ABSTRACT

The aim of this article is to compare forced vital capacity [FVC], forced expiratory volume in the first second [FEV1] and peak expiratory flow rate [PEFR] values in cotton dust exposed textile workers with those obtained from non-exposed control. A randomized cross-sectional study was performed in June 2004 on 101 adult subjects in Khartoum city. 37 were textile workers [19 males and 18 females]. 10 males were exposed to cotton dust for >10 years and 9 for < 10 years, while 18 females were exposed for more than 10 years. 40 non-exposed subjects of similar ages and heights [20 males and 20 females] were used as control. The subjects were examined for pulmonary function using microplus spirometer and their respiratory history was investigated by questionnaire. Results showed that Males exposed for > 10 years showed a highly significant reduction in FEV1 and PEFR compared to the control [p<0.01] while the reduction in FVC was statistically insignificant [p=0.071]. Statistically significant reductions in FVC and FEVl compared to the group exposed for < 10 years were detected, but still the reduction in PEFR was statistically insignificant [p=0.042]. In female textile workers, reductions in FVC, FEV1 and PEFR were statistically insignificant compared to the control as females worked at less exposed sections. Some subjects in the exposed groups had experienced chronic cough and shortness of breath following exposure. It is concluded that chronic exposure to cotton dust is associated with respiratory tract allergy and obstruction more than restriction owing to the significant reductions in PEFR and FEV1 compared to the insignificant reduction in FVC. Proper health safety precautions should be taken in textile factories with continuous check up of the workers